Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic Level

Hydrostatic level measurement determines level (head) by measuring the pressure created by a liquid column at a defined point. It provides continuous level information for water and many other liquids, and product families such as Deltapilot and Waterpilot are positioned for tank and well applications, either as submersible probes or installed outside the vessel.

Sensor construction is critical where moisture, condensation, and aggressive atmospheres are present. The Contite sensor concept is designed for hydrostatic duties: the measuring element is hermetically sealed between the process membrane and the measuring membrane and is protected against severe moisture and condensate formation, making it insensitive to condensation and aggressive gases. In the Contite cell, the measuring cell is protected between the process isolating diaphragm and a rear isolating membrane. Oil‑free, capacitive ceramic measuring cells are also offered; in this design, process pressure acts directly on a robust ceramic diaphragm and the resulting capacitance change is evaluated.

Benefits are tied to safety and long-term stability. The condensate‑proof Contite measuring cell is described as providing maximum plant safety and offering very good reproducibility and long‑term stability even after temperature shocks. Ceramic-cell variants add strong chemical compatibility and mechanical stability through ultra‑pure 99.9% ceramic, and a robust ceramic membrane with integrated breakage detection supports reliable operation, including in vacuum applications.

Typical applications include reservoirs, storage and process tanks, lift stations, clarifiers, wells, and open basins where a direct, continuous level value is required. Submersible probes are common in water and wastewater monitoring, while externally mounted transmitters are used where access, hygiene, or mechanical protection favors an outside‑vessel installation. In many installations, the level signal is used for pump control, overflow protection, and inventory management.

Specification should account for fluid density, temperature gradients, and any vapor-space pressure effects that influence the pressure-to-level conversion. Installation details - reference pressure venting, cable routing, and diaphragm exposure to sediment or coating - often determine long-term performance. Material selection, diagnostics, and a practical verification strategy help sustain confidence without frequent removal.

Engineered Equipment Company, a leading supplier of specialized industrial equipment.